Angel Pagan CF
Luis Castillo 2B
David Wright 3B
Daniel Murphy 1B
Jeff Francoeur RF
Cory Sullivan LF
Omir Santos C
Alex Cora SS
Johan Santana (11-8, 3.12 ERA) P
The Weather Channel is calling for thunderstorms and strong storms throughout the night in Flushing, so we’ll see if they can get the game in. The radar map is looking equally ominous. I just hope it’s not one of those games where Santana starts and then gets pulled in the second inning because of a rain delay.
If they think that might happen, how about trying this novel idea? Start a long man like Tim Redding or Elmer Dessens and then after the rain delay, put in Santana. That way, Santana’s start isn’t blown. Of course, that won’t help if the game is delayed again.
If they can get the game in, Santana will vie for his National League-tying 12th win. The lineup is virtually the same as last night’s with the exception of Santos doing the catching. I like the consistency I’m seeing in the lineup. Pagan and Castillo are making a good leadoff tandem and even Murphy is contributing in the cleanup spot. This kind of consistency has been lacking this season and right now it’s working. Jerry Manuel finally seems to have found the correct order.
